Top 11 Best Inverter ACs in India

The heat and the humidity in India make it unbearable to survive without an air conditioner. One cannot have a peaceful sleep without cooling down the temperature of the room.

But, some people are really afraid to turn on the air conditioner because of the high electricity bills they have to pay after the month. Therefore, companies nowadays are launching air conditioners which help you achieve a pleasant temperature but are also energy efficient.

Inverter air conditioners are the newest invention to help people deal with this problem. There are many advantages of the inverter air conditioners over the conventional air conditioners.

Firstly, the inverter air conditioners consume much less power than conventional air conditioners. This is because unlike in conventional air conditioners where the compressor runs at its peak power all the time, Inverter AC draws only draw that much power which is actually required to get a stable and comfortable temperature inside a room at a certain time. And hence, consumes a lot less electricity!

They help to maintain a more constant and accurate room temperature by not leaving the room too cold or too hot. It promotes efficient cooling without the worry of voltage fluctuations.

Modern Inverter split ACs are equipped with a lot of smart features which leads to improved cooling and low power consumption. From 7 stage filtration technology to dual inverter technology, sleep mode, timer, auto mode, leak detector and what not!

It is also very eco-friendly because of the use of better and newer refrigerants. It also comes in various sizes, shapes and designs so as to suit your home décor be it small or large rooms.

But it is inevitable that you will get confused if you are in the lookout for an AC for your own home. There are so many brands which are constantly churning out new models with improved features and build quality etc.

There are many things which you should keep in mind while buying an air conditioner like tonnage, size, warranty, cooling capacity, power consumption etc. Hence, we have a detailed “buying guide” on all the things you should consider before spending your hard earned money on an AC.

Also we have a comprehensive product list of 11 Best Inverter AC in India provided below will surely help you buy your desired air conditioner.

The U.S based manufacturer was the pioneer of AC, and has been ruling the market for over a century now. Optimum cooling capacity, reliability and low power consumption if you want all these benefits in a 1.5 ton AC then Carrier should be our first recommendation.

The incredible 1.5 ton AC is known for their High Ambient Working, it is suitable for a room of 121-179 sq. It is BEE 4-star rated and the ISEER value is 3.92 with a cooling capacity of 5200 Watt.

The inverter technology consumes a minimal 1560 Watt of power at full load and 580 Watt at half load. Though the smart inverter technology automatically adjusts the tonnage and power consumption based on the room size and outdoor temperature thus cutting off on your total energy consumptions.

Their Hybridjet with hybrid cooling technology uses air with low-temperature refrigerant which cools the room inside even when it is 55 degree C heated outside. It uses a 100% copper condenser over those aluminum condensers which are better heat exchanger and will last you a good 10-15 years.

The Cyclojet compressor with the waterproof motor is made to work in extreme weather conditions while the extra thick insulation reduces the noise level. The size is also reduced up to 40% than other AC compressors which is easy to maintain and maneuver and a perfect choice for homes with a space crunch.

Lastly, the operation is stabilizer free that means it can work even under high-voltage fluctuation up to 150-280V, so don’t need to install another stabilizer to protect it.

Other Notable Factors-

Refrigerant leakage detector– in case of any refrigerant leakage it immediately turns off the machine and shows the error code to prevent any potential damage.

Micro P.M Filter– activated carbon and silver mesh P. M filter filters out any pollutant as well as allergens from the air (above or up to 2.5 micrometer).

Low voltage operation– operates smoothly at a low voltage of 195V under high ambient temperature as much as 55 degree C.

Environment-friendly Refrigerant– the refrigerant it uses is called R410 which has zero ozone depletion potential

The Verdict-

The unit is a solid performer! The machine simply doesn’t lack in any field. But all these come with a high price tag, one must admit. Knowing what you are buying will provide utmost comfort and top-notch quality for years to come justifies the initial cost you spend. Their top-notch quality and exceptional design instantly brightens up your boring bedroom or living room decoration. Overall, the all-round performance ignoring the high price tag, makes this one our top pick on this list.

In India, L.G air conditioners are considered one of the best because of their quality that is outstanding and their massive afters sales service network.

This 1.5-ton dual inverter split AC with 5187 cooling capacity is suitable for medium sized rooms of 111-150 sq ft. It is 3 stars energy rated by BEE and ISEER value is 3.96. Their Active Energy Control further limits the energy consumptions and saves up to 57% energy in total. Power consumption is only 6 units when running for a continuous 8 hours.

L.G’s dual inverter compressor comes with wider rotational frequency along with a double speed cooling range which results in faster cooling, energy efficiency and operation that is noise free. It keeps the room temperature comfortably cool even if the ambient temperature raises as high as 52 degree C. L.G calls it the Dualcool technology!

The inverter technology starts working as soon as the room reaches to the desired temperature; it then senses the load and adjusts power consumption accordingly.

100% copper condenser with gold fin protects it from sun, rain, salty air and other corrosion-causing elements. The ocean-black protection layer on both the indoor and outdoor units ensures its durability in the long run.

It has a special feature called low refrigerant detection; it detects low refrigerant levels in the room, notifies you and then shuts the machine down to save running cost, energy consumption and prevents it from possible damages.

One of the most appreciated features L.G officers is the use of a less harmful environment-friendly refrigerant called R32 which safeguards the ozone layer and is not something that you will commonly found in other conditioners.

Other Notable Features Includes-

Stabilizer free operation- it has an inbuilt stabilizer that handles voltage fluctuations with ease

Micro-dust protection filter– it filters out pollutants (up to3 micrometer) including harmful bacteria and allergens and saves you from respiratory disorders

Instant cooling– controls temperature, humidity, air-movement to blow you with a cool breeze with just a tap of a button

Auto Cleaning– after enabling auto clean options the heat exchanger starts drying leaving no place for bacteria or mould formation.

Comfort air– the gentle yet cool breeze blows into your room and not in your face, just set a position and let it do its job.

The Verdict-

L.G has more or less similar features if compared to Carrier, and priced similar. But the reason it comes 2nd on the list is, when it comes to cooling capacity, the Carrier performs better and LG has a 3-star as compared to 4-stars on Carrier. Their Cyclojet compressor and Hybridjet condenser is the reason behind it. On the bright side, L.G comes with their Smart Diagnosis app and the refrigerant they use is more environment-friendly and cause very less pollution.

Samsung and LG both make quality products very similar to each other and often it becomes hard to tell which is better because their overall design and working formula for air conditioners are kind of same. Samsung’s main motto is smart technology and this unit is packed with many advanced features.

The model from Samsung with 1.5 tonnage and 5000 Watt cooling capacity will be compatible if your room size is 111-150 sq ft. The split AC unit is 3 stars BEE rated and has ISEER value of 3.6.

The inverter technology with variable speed compressors adjusts the power consumption based on the heat and load. The 8 pole digital inverter maintains a constant temperature without consuming much energy, so you can enjoy a comfortable room temperature without frequent on and off.

It creates a cozy comfortable room temperature using 2-step cooling technique, where it first runs the compressor at maximum speed for 30 minutes and then it enables the comfort cool mode which automatically sets a desirable temperature so you don’t need to change temperature settings and modes each time.

It can work under a wide range of voltage fluctuations from 146- 290 V. If the voltage surges or drops beyond the range the machine will cut off the electric input and turns it only when the fluctuations comes under controlled range. It is made to protect the compressor for overloading and the controller from sudden voltage surges, which are quite common in India.

The condenser fins and the chassis are further protected from corrosion by multi protective layers.

Smart Installation– self-installation check by the machine itself, so you can rest assured that the installation team has done their job perfectly. The machine takes 7 to 13 minutes during this operation.

Good Night Sleep with Samsung– this feature is to create an ideal climate in your room controlling the temperature, humidity and air-flow rate for uninterrupted sleep.

Verdict-

Samsung would never compromise on the quality, they are famous for making mid-range products with superior qualities, and this unit is no different. Features are quite similar with L.G but the time taken for cooling is much higher also it doesn’t come with any instant cooling mode which you will find in Carrier and L.G, other than this the unit is a perfect balance between quality and reliability and the price is also reasonable.

Godrej is an Indian brand that makes reliable, durable and energy efficient air conditioners. If you want an equally efficient 1.5-ton inverter AC but you have a strict budget then look no far and go with this.

The 1.5-ton inverter split has a capacity of cooling 4805 Watt and suits small to medium sized rooms under 110-150 ft sq feet. It is BEE 3 star rated and ISEER 3.6 implies low power consumption (1555 Watt).

Like any other premium quality air conditioners, it also has 100% copper condenser and connecting pipe for better heat transfer and even better cooling.

It is equipped with several features to make it more user-friendly, like the turbo mode with instant cooling capacity, sleep mode where it increases 1 degree temperature per hour to maintain an ideal temperature for a peaceful sleep and the dry mode where a dehumidifier soaks excess moisture from the air, and works pretty good in monsoons.

The smart inverter AC operates with an auto-mode where it judges the difference between the ambient temperature and set temperatures and then selects the required mode automatically, maintain a soothing and comfortable temperature inside while cutting off on net energy consumption.

In addition to it, it comes with a special Catechin filter with anti-viral properties that kills harmful bacteria and viruses while the anti-oxidant formula works as a deodorizer.

Other Notable Features-

Eco-friendly refrigerant– the refrigerant R410A is environment-friendly, doesn’t harm the ozone layer and has very low global warming potentials

Hydrophilic Coating– hydrophilic coating on the evaporator protects it from bacteria and corrosion causing elements

Low noise level– the unit works amazingly within 33 dB and never exceeds it

Verdict- Godrej 1.5 ton inverter AC is probably the best choice for people who have budget issues. It has enough powerful cooling capacity, consumes very less energy and has all the features one could expect under this price range. Moreover, it comes with a 7 years warranty on the compressor which we think is great.

Pros-

Very fast cooling

Power consumption is much lower than its competitors

Presence of auto mode, sleep mode and dry mode makes it convenient for its users

When the topic is Air Conditioners, you can never miss Voltas. Their quality and service are commendable and some customers don’t even think before opting for Voltas.

With 4-star BEE ratings it is one of the most energy efficient Air conditioners in our list. It has an ISEER value of 4.1 with an annual power consumption of 981.81 units that goes light on your pocket. The 1.5 tonnage AC with 5200 Watt cooling capacity is sufficient for a room of 110-150 sq ft.

Unlike other compressors, Voltas has a unique 2 stage steady cool compressor with wider application range that results in improved cooling as well as heating capacity, even at high ambient temperature of 52 degree C. With that, the condenser is 100% copper made, extra durable and plays a big role in playing efficient cooling performance for years.

It also comes with multi-stage filtration capabilities, it purifies the air, removes any bad odor, allergens or any other harmful pollutants, so that the air you inhale stays fresh and healthy.

Lastly, the AC can operate under a wide range of voltage fluctuations (145-290), so you are free from investing in another stabilizer.

Other Notable Features Include-

Active Dehumidifier– comes really helpful in the monsoon when there is a lot of moisture in the air

Environment-Friendly Refrigerant– it uses R32 as a refrigerant which is environment-friendly and causes zero pollution

Voltas is considered one of the best quality AC manufacturing brands. The 1.5-ton inverter AC with 4-star energy rating has it all, from energy efficiency to stabilizer free operations. But the major drawback is only 5 years of warranty on the compressor. From a reputable brand like Voltas, you expect at least 7 years of compressor warranty if not 10.

Pros-

BEE 4 star and ISEER 4.1 for more saving on electricity bills

The powerful compressor provides efficient cooling

Powerful cooling in high ambient temperature

Stabilizer free operation

1 year on the product, 1 year on the condenser and 5 years on the compressor

Do you think too much about that end of the month electricity bill when you think of getting an AC for your home? The next model from Sanyo will be the ultimate solution for you if you want to save that hard earned money on electricity bills.

It has a BEE 5 star which is the highest rating for the lowest power consumption. ISEER value is 4.6 which is again the highest and will cut down on your future electricity bill to a great extent. With 1.5 ton capacity, it is ideal for small to medium-sized rooms (111-150 sq ft).

In this case, inverter motor is equipped with 2 independent rotary compressors. These two rotaries together cool down the room in half time while the smart inverter technology smartly reduces electricity consumption.

An in-built P.M 2.5 M filter filtrate dust particles, bacteria, pollen from the air. If you want instant cooling turn the Glacier mode which will then take 35% faster fan speed for cooling in lesser time.

For a greater life span, the copper condenser is made corrosion resistant while the fins are hydrophilic coated ensuring superior protection from rust-causing weather conditions.

Other Notable Features Include-

Self Diagnosis– no need to wait for the service team, if any malfunction occurs inside, the temperatures display shows you the error code for easy troubleshooting.

Auto-Start– automatically resumes the previous settings once the power comes back

Backlit remote– the temperature control and power buttons glow in the dark

Sleepmode and timer function– auto adjusts the temperature for a good night’s sleep and the other can set a particular time for turning on/off the machine

R32 Refrigerant– R32 is more eco-friendly than other refrigerants. It causes zero damage to the ozone layer also protects the condenser from deadly fires.

Hidden Display– the display bar is small and stays hidden, doesn’t bother you with flashy lights in the dark.

The Verdict-

There is nothing bad about the Sanyo 1.5 ton unit, being the most cost and energy efficient AC in our list, it knows how to do the job perfectly. The reason it is left behind is the short warranty period that is quite obvious as the performance and price it offers are truly unmatched. However, if you want something more reliable with a longer warranty period then we suggest you go for Carrier, L.G or Samsung.

Pros-

5 Star BEE ratings and 4.6 ISEER ratings for ultimate power saving

Dual compressor motor

The Glacier mode starts cooling in a few minutes

Self-diagnosis app tells you if any malfunction occurs

The backlit remote is a great advantage to operate in the dark

1 year on the product, 1 year on the condenser and 5 years on the compressor

Another inverter AC from the house of Godrej, but this time with lesser capacity for smaller rooms and apartments!

The 1 ton split AC with 3400W cooling capacity will be suitable if your room is less than 110 sq ft. With 3-star BEE ratings and 3.56 ISEER value, its annual power consumption is 739.27 units on average.

Even after having lesser capacity the inverter compressor has twin rotary which gives you a faster cooling while it consumes low energy and saves your electricity bill. It is the speciality of an inverter AC to adjust the temperature with the load for precise cooling.

The condenser is made with pure copper for better heat exchanging properties and the evaporator is coated with anti-corrosive Bluefin for greater durability and long lasting performance.

Unlike other brands in the market, Godrej AC’s operates with minimal noise. They have a multi-layer acoustic jacket that absorbs sounds and maintains a peaceful environment outside.

Moreover, it doesn’t ask you to install another stabilizer to protect it from voltage fluctuations. The AC can perform across a wide range of voltage from 160-280v.

Other Notable Features Includes-

Active Carbon Filter– actively catches dust, cigarette smoke and other pollutants. It also removes any unpleasant odor from the indoor air.

Anti Bacterial Filter– smaller sized filter that traps bacteria, virus, pollens, spores. It is a relief for children with respiratory problems or asthma patients.

In our view, the product is a total value for money until and unless you are from a city where temperatures go beyond 45 degree C in summer, as the machine cannot perform well in high ambient temperatures. Other than this, Godrej is a perfect match for people who are in search of an AC which is affordable, offers quality and efficiency while cutting down on monthly electricity bills.

The 1-ton capacity inverter AC from L.G is one of the best small capacities available in the market. Energy rated by BEE is 4 and ISEER is 3.96 with 685.49 units of annual power consumption.

The Dualcool technology, the reason behind their fast cooling operations can perform equally well in high ambient temperature as much as 52 degree C. To prevent the chances of rust formation the copper condenser is coated with ocean black protective layer with gold fins which are anti-corrosive.

When you need instant cooling, just turn the Himalaya Cool mode on for immediate cooling action and if you feel too much humidity inside the room there is an exclusive Monsoon Comfort Mode which will suck up all the excess moisture from the indoor air.

The L.G inverter AC can detect low refrigerant level, notifies you and shuts the machine off when it exceeds the minimum level. Also, an Auto Clean feature dries up the heat exchanger leaving no space for bacteria or mould formation.

Other Notable Features-

Stabilizer free operation- it has an inbuilt stabilizer that handles voltage fluctuations with ease

Comfort air- the gentle yet cool breeze blows into your room and not in your face, just set a position and let it do its job.

R32- the R32 refrigerant is superior compared to R410 and causes less pollution and zero damage to the protective ozone layer.

Verdict-

The product is built well! The quality is premium, features are plenty, cooling power is appreciable and the energy consumption is also very less. The efficiency of cooling doesn’t decrease with increasing temperature and performs well in the highest Indian temperatures keeping in mind it is only a 1 ton AC. You can opt for L.G instead of Godrej but keeping in mind, the brand is going to shed you some extra bucks.

The Samsung 1-ton 3-star AC shares similar features with the Samsung 1.5 ton AC mentioned on the list above, the only difference is their tonnage.

1-ton capacity is suitable for rooms which are less than or equal to 110 sq ft. It is 3 stars BEE rated and has ISEER value of 3.6.

The digital inverter technology maintains steady room temperature by continuously balancing between ambient temperature and load. It works in two steps called fast cooling and comfortable cooling where it first turns the AC on with full speed for 30 minutes, after reaching the desired temperature the mode changes to comfort cool where it maintains that temperature.

It has triple protection for the compressor, the controller and the chassis; so they last long in extreme weather conditions without forming rust and can stand sudden voltage surges or breakdowns. That being said it can handle a wide range of voltage fluctuations without you installing a separate stabilizer.

Smart Installation– self-installation check by the machine itself, so you can rest assures that the installation team has done their job perfectly. The machine takes 7 to 13 minutes during this operation.

Good Night Sleep with Samsung– this feature is to create climate ideal controlling the temperature, humidity and air-flow rate for your uninterrupted sleep.

The Verdict-

Samsung never compromises on the quality but the price is comparatively higher than that of Godrej, but it is a good balance of performance, reliability and cost efficiency. Also, the product doesn’t cost a bomb but it is a bit high. The installation cost may vary a little, check it properly and if possible call the help center directly before you order.

Voltas is known for its build quality, and this 1-ton Inverter AC from Voltas doesn’t disappoint. Right out of the box, you can easily make out that it is sturdy, compact and built to last.

This inverter AC by Voltas is a great choice as the 1 ton capacity is sufficient for a small to medium sized room. Moreover, it boasts a commendable 4-star energy rating. You can expect a significant decrease in your electricity bills as the 4-star BEE rating is not so common at this price range. It promises to provide high performance without compromising on energy efficiency.

The main motto here is steady cooling and steady savings! The overall performance benefit and energy efficiency are mainly due to Voltas’s steady cool compressor. The High EER Rotary – BLDC compressor is very unique in terms of its functionality. It is capable of cooling even at 52 degrees C. It comes with a complete copper condenser which is inner grooved for improved cooling and durability.

There is a 4-stage filtration mechanism on this appliance that is extremely necessary nowadays. It sucks bad air with the anti-dust filter, catechin filter, acaro bacterium filer, and freshens up the air with vitamin-c and silver ion filtration respectively. It can filter allergens, any type of odour and other harmful particles from inside the room and in turn offers air that is not only cool but fresh.

The remote comes with a large LED display and comes with all modern AC features like self-diagnosis, swing mode, turbo mode, lock, glow button, a dual temperature display, timer etc.

Voltas has a good service network, so in case of any discrepancies you can directly contact here: 1800-266-4555/1800-425-4555. Other than that, 1-year warranty on the product, 1-year warranty on the condenser, 5 years comprehensive warranty on the compressor.

Other Notable Features:

Proper Sleep Mode – For a comfortable sleep at night, the sleep mode basically helps to maintain a steady temperature by decreasing and increasing the rate of cooling whenever necessary and in turn reduces power consumption.

Timer – Comes with a very convenient inbuilt timer feature to turn on/off AC by setting time

Environment Friendly – 124V SZ-this particular model uses R410 as a refrigerant. It is tested and generally used on many air conditioners and you can expect a good performance. Also, it is not known to cause any harm to the environment.

The Verdict

Voltas is a Tata product and going by the standards, the build quality is solid. The 1 ton capacity with a 4-star BEE rating at an affordable price is a win-win situation. Moreover, the 100% copper application, impressive filtration and unique compressor technology makes this product a potent addition to this list. Ignoring the bad installation experience in many cases, and limited warranty, it is overall a value for money product with good usable features and benefits.

The last addition in our list ends with Blue Star 1 ton inverter Split AC. Blue Star has been around the market for a long time now and they make very capable air conditioners.

This unit comes with a 3450 W cooling capacity which is suitable for small sized rooms which are less than 110 sq ft. It is 3 stars BEE rated and 3.63 ISEER value that consumes 731.27 units per year on average.

The condenser coil is made with pure copper which requires low maintenance and will last several years without forming rust and stain. The best part with Blue Star is that they are designed with 7 stages of filters to provide you with air that is fresh, pure and devoid of any pollutants.

Blue star smart inverter works with an iFeel technique. This has an in-built sensor in the remote controller that can sense the temperature around you and then adjust it according to the desired temperature, and that can be done with just a push of a button.

To wrap it up, the Blue Star 1.5 ton AC is energy efficient, offers fast cooling and provides the purest air that is filtered with 7 stages of intense purification. A great choice if you suffer from respiratory abnormalities or asthma. One big problem that customers have faced with this particular model is the defective outdoor PCB board. Please check it after you receive the product. Other than that, it is a good product from Voltas that you can go for at this price range.

Buying Guide – All You Need To Know About Inverter ACs

When you think of buying an AC to beat the heat, you will come across two types of ACs namely non-inverter ACs and the inverter ACs. The inverter ACs are the latest additions in the AC family, and that is why they are more efficient and profitable for the buyer. By the term ‘inverter’, people generally think of a typical inverter appliance which will supply current from the battery when the main power is off.

However, the term ‘inverter’ in inverter ACs has nothing to do with a typical inverter appliance. It is due to the implementation of Inverter Technology in those ACs that they are named such. Therefore, without further ado, let’s know all the different aspects of inverter ACs that you should educate yourself before buying one.

What Is An Inverter AC?

The compressor is the heart of an air conditioner. The air conditioner that uses the inverter technology to control the speed and power of the compressor is referred to as an Inverter AC. By controlling the speed of the compressor, it is controlling the power consumed by the compressor and hence, it is power efficient. This speed controlling depends on the thermostat reading, and therefore, the cooling is more effective, and the temperature regulation is optimal at any given point in time. It is important to note that the inverter ACs are split ACs as the inverter technology is exclusively applicable to them.

How Does An Air Conditioner Work?

To understand the working of an inverter AC, you have to first understand the working of any general or non-inverter air conditioner. In general, it is based on the principles of evaporation, compression, and condensation. An air conditioner works by taking the indoor air, cooling it down and throwing it back to the room.

The Evaporator

The hot air from the room is drawn in through the grille in the indoor unit. The cooling down of the air takes place while passing through the evaporator. The evaporator coil is where the hot air and coolant refrigerant pass through. The refrigerant absorbs the heat for the air, and itself turns into a gas.

The Compressor

Along with the evaporator, the compressor, and the condenser work in conjunction. The gaseous refrigerant goes through the compressor located in the outdoor unit and leaves as a high-pressure, hot gas. In the compressor, the gas is compressed and hence, the pressure and temperature of the gaseous refrigerant rise.

The Condenser

The high pressure, hot air goes to the condenser located in the outdoor unit where the condenser dissipates the heat through metal fins. The refrigerant condenses from gas to liquid. This fluid makes its way into the evaporator where it again evaporates into the gas.

To evaporate the liquid into the gaseous form in the evaporator, heat is required. This heat is extracted from the room air. Therefore, the air conditioner sucks in air from the room through the vent ducts. Once the heat is extracted from the sucked in air, the cooled air is thrown back in the room.

This is how it forms a complete closed loop, and the process is repeated again and again. This process continues until the room temperature reaches the desired level as set by the user.

The difference in the working of an inverter and a general or non-inverter AC has been explained below.

Difference Between Inverter and Non-Inverter ACs –

Technology and Compressor Type

The primary difference between inverter and non-inverter AC is the use of inverter technology in the inverter AC. The inverter technology controls the speed and power supply to the compressor motor that is majorly responsible for the temperature regulation ability of the unit.

Therefore, an inverter AC has a variable speed compressor so that it can regulate the temperature and provide optimal cooling or heating as per the load of the room. On the contrary, a non-inverter AC comes with a fixed or single speed compressor that can either switch on or off at the set speed.

Operational Difference

An inverter AC works by controlling the speed of the compressor which in turn, controls the flow of refrigerant as per the temperature requirement of the conditioned space. The compressor never stops working and does not stop or start frequently. Therefore, the cooling and heating are precise and consistent. On the other hand, a non-inverter AC has fixed power and speed, and it frequently starts and stops which is why the cooling and heating power is neither precise nor consistent.

Energy Efficiency

For a user, rather than the constructional, technological or operation difference, it is what they are getting and what they are missing are more important. By logic, as the inverter ACs are the latest additions in the market, they are more energy efficient. On a technical level, it is the operations of the ACs that make all the difference as far as energy efficiency goes.

In an inverter AC, the cooling and heating are totally automated, and the power supply and the speed of the compressor are adjusted automatically depending on the requirement of the room where it is placed. Due to this constant regulation on electricity consumption, it becomes more efficient than a non-inverter AC where the power supply and speed stay constant in all scenarios.

Power Consumption

The following is an illustration of the power consumption of inverter and non-inverter ACs as published by BEE in 2018.

0.75 ton

1 ton

1.5 ton

2 ton

1 Star AC (non-Inverter)

630

840

1250

1650

2 Star AC (non-Inverter)

600

800

1180

1630

3 Star AC (bothInverter and non-Inverter)

540

750

1100

1450

4 Star (Inverter)

460

650

950

1290

5 Star (Inverter)

450

550

840

1110

Note that the data in the table are on the basis of annual electricity consumption (1600 hours) and the unit is in kWh. The data are rounded off to the nearby multiple of 10 for better understanding.

It is very clear of the data above that a non-inverter AC consumes more power than an inverter AC, and the greater the star rating, the more energy efficient the air conditioner will be, and the lesser will be the power consumption.

Miscellaneous Factors

Noise is an integral part of any AC and the closer you sit near the AC, the more you will notice it. The origin of the noise is a combination of all the major components. As for the inverter AC, the compressor does not go on and off as frequently as a non-inverter AC, hence, the operation is quieter in comparison. The annoying noise in the non-inverter AC is due to the constant on and off of the compressor motor.

As far as the cost goes, the more energy efficient product is likely to have higher price tags. Therefore, an inverter AC with a certain star rating is slightly pricier than the corresponding non-inverter AC. However, this is a one-time investment, and in the long run, you will be saving more money on the electricity bill with an inverter AC.

Understanding The Components Of Split ACs

As an inverter AC is basically a split AC with the inverter technology, the components are the same. In general, there are three parts in a split AC namely the indoor unit, the outdoor unit and the pipes connecting the units. The following is an in-depth look at the various inner components of these major parts. Understanding this component will help you compare different models of inverter AC and choose the best one within a certain budget you have in mind.

Evaporator Coils – The condenser is where the refrigerant absorbs the heat of the drawn-in air of the room and turn into the gaseous state. Therefore, the condenser coils are filled with refrigerant in its original liquid state. These coils also eliminate the moisture from the air along with heat and this network of tubes is located in the indoor unit.

Compressor – It is the heart of an air conditioner. It is located in the outdoor unit. The main job of the compressor is to increase the pressure of the gaseous refrigerant that comes from the evaporator. Due to compression, the pressure increases and thereby, the temperature of the gas also increases. It is the most important step as it prepares the refrigerant to give up its heat in the next stage and change its state of liquid which is its original state.

Condenser Coils – The role of the condenser coils is almost the opposite of the evaporator coils. This network of tubes is located in the outdoor unit, and they are filled with refrigerant in the heated gaseous form coming from the compressor. The condenser coils remove the heat for the refrigerant by radiating heat outside through metal fins. Due to the cooling of the refrigerant, it changes its state from gas to liquid again.

Fan – There is a fan present in the outdoor unit which not only radiates the heat from the refrigerant but also from the overall outdoor unit. The outdoor unit gets heated due to the flow of the hot gaseous refrigerant from compressor to condenser coils. To prevent overheating and malfunctioning of the unit, the fan and the fins draw the hot air out of the unit continuously.

Air Filters – The role of the air filter is to prevent any impurities present in the room air from entering the air conditioner. These impurities can be dust, pollen, and various such airborne particles. This ensures the smooth functioning of the system and the quality of the air in the room.

Thermostat – The thermostat is a very crucial part of an air conditioner. The overall performance of an air conditioner depends on it as it is the control center. It reads the indoor temperature and the temperature you set for your comfort. Accordingly, the speed of the compressor is controlled, and hence, the cooling and heating effect take place to meet the requirements.

Pipes – There are two main pipes needed in a split AC namely refrigerant pipe and draining pipe. The refrigerant pipe which can be of copper or aluminum or alloy is used to connect the indoor unit to the outdoor unit. Due to condensation, water is a by-product generated in the process. However, the accumulation of water in the system can be dangerous for electric parts in the system. Therefore, to eliminate water, a drainage pipe is attached which eliminates water droplets and makes the system run perfectly.

Apart from these, there are blower for blow cool air in the room, chemical refrigerant which is the lifeline of air conditioning system and there is an expansion valve which comes after the condenser coil to lower the temperature of the liquid refrigerant before entering evaporator coils again.

Things To Consider While Buying An Inverter AC

While researching and going through inverter ACs of different brands, you have to keep the following factors in mind. You have to make sure that you shortlist to buy such an inverter AC where the factors are well-balanced so that you get the perfect value for your money.

1. Room Size

The first thing to consider while buying an air conditioner is the room size where you will install it. Rooms of different sizes need ACs of different capacity so that the AC can perform its job perfectly. In short, the larger the size of the room, the higher the ton of the AC you have to buy. The term ‘ton’ refers to the amount of heat an AC is capable of removing from the room in an hour. British Thermal Unit (BTU) is the unit for the measurement of the amount of heat removed. Therefore, the higher the ton of the AC, the higher will be the BTU and therefore, the greater will be the cooling capacity of the AC.

Naturally, a large room will have more hot air at any given point in comparison to a smaller room. Hence, you need a higher ton of AC to cool the room faster. In general, 1 ton is equal to 12,000 BTU per hour, and 2 ton is double of that, 3 ton is triple of that and likewise. Now that you have some idea about what ton means in an AC, it is time to correlate the size of your room which the appropriate ton of the AC you should buy.

Frankly speaking, there is no universal correlation between the size of the room and the tonnage you need to buy. This is because the cooling of a room not just depends on the size of the room but also the number of people in the room, appliances running in the room, the outside environment, and much more. Still following is a rough estimation and correlation between the size of the room and the tonnage you need for optimal cooling.

ROOM SIZE (IN SQ. FT)

REQUIRED AC CAPACITY (IN TONS)

0 – 80

0.75

80 – 140

1

150 – 200

1.5

200 – 300

2

There is no harm if you buy a high capacity AC for a small room as the cooling will be faster. However, you have to pay a higher price of the AC unnecessarily, and the overall power consumption will be higher for no reason at all. Therefore, buy the optional capacity of the AC according to the room size.

2. Star Ratings

You might have seen that different inverter ACs has different star ratings. Some are having 3 stars, others 4 and even 5 stars. These star ratings imply power consumption. We all know that AC consumes relatively more power than most other electric appliance. However, the power consumption is less in an inverter AC than a non-inverter AC which we have already explained. The star rating is given by the Bureau Of Energy Efficiency (BEE).

BEE rating depends on EER which stands for Energy Efficiency Ratio. EER is determined by the cooling capacity divided by power consumption. The less the power consumption, the higher will be EER, and the higher will be the number of stars an AC gets. In other words, the higher the number of stars, the lesser will be the power consumption. Therefore, if your budget can accommodate, always go for the higher star rating inverter AC. You will save a lot of money in the long run even though the inverter AC may cost slightly higher which you should consider as a one-time investment.

3. The Material Of The Coils

You must have seen in the component section that an inverter AC has coils in the condenser and evaporator section. The material of the coil varies from one model to another. The popular materials used are copper, aluminum or alloy. The aluminum coil based AC will cost less, but the durability of the coil will be less and hence, you have to change such coils multiple times in the lifespan of the AC. The alloy coils have still lesser durability. It is the copper coils that are the best, and you should always insist on buying copper coil based ACs. This will ensure longer life of the coils and leakage-free, optimal cooling experience.

4. Miscellaneous Settings

The inverter ACs are quite modern, and therefore, most of them have various features and settings. While buying you should ensure that the AC has an adjustable thermostat, adjustable cooling speed settings and fan speed. This is because you may want to set different settings at a different time of a day. There is always an auto mode to take care of everything automatically. But if you opt for manual control, the above-mentioned settings are a must. By manual control, you can save power consumption and set the settings you are comfortable with.

Apart from these, you should check the temperature range the AC is compatible with. Other than the auto mode, there could be various other useful modes like Turbo mode for instant cooling, Night mode, Rainy mode, Fan mode, Heat mode and much more. The greater the modes, the better and user-friendly the AC will be. As a matter of fact, these days, there are certain inverter ACs that are having Wi-Fi connection so that you can control the operation of your AC with your smartphone and turn it on and off from any place in the world.

5. Air Quality

The importance of ensuring proper air quality is quite high as there are various airborne diseases happening especially in the urban and semi-urban regions. Therefore, the inverter AC brands are clearly mentioning what their product can do in terms of air quality. If your home is close to the roads and there is a lack of trees around, you should opt for the one that provides the best air quality control. The usual ones absorb the dust, pollen, and other such particles as the air of the entire room passes through the filter. However, there are some which can also make the air get rid of various germs and smaller particles.

6. Usage and Price

If you are going to use your AC only in the summer season which consists only 3-4 months and you are planning to keep it on for 8-10 hours, you can go for the 3-star inverter AC. However, if you are going to use it for 6-8 months and that too for 12-16 hours, you should opt for the 5-star inverter AC to save a lot of money in the long run as far as electricity bill goes.

The price of the inverter AC varies based on the tonnage, the star rating, the features, the design, and the brand. The 1.5 ton AC is quite standard, and the price will vary from 35,000 to 50,000 INR. The 1-ton will be in the range of 30,000 to 40,000 INR while 2-ton inverter AC will be from 45,000 to 65,000 INR. You have to choose the best one within your budget keeping in mind this buying guide.

7. Warranty and After-Sales Service

The warranty plays a major role in an electric appliance. For inverter ACs, the warranty is based on the compressors. It varies from 5 to 10 years. For better after-sales service, you have to pick an inverter AC from the best brands. Such popular brands have service centers across the country, and the installation will be within a few days. Besides, the AC needs annual maintenance service, and you can get them available readily.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is a Dual Inverter AC?

A dual inverter AC is a new addition in the market, and it is an improvement over the general inverter AC. It comes with dual rotary motors and hence, it is so named. The product has a wider rotational frequency due to which it is more efficient in its performance. The cooling will be faster, and there will be lesser noise. Not just that, there is going to be a better saving in the power bills, and therefore, it is a more profitable product to buy.

A general inverter AC works the best when the outside temperature is below 46 degree Celsius. But for a dual inverter AC, this temperature limit extends up to 52 degree Celsius. Other than that, it works in the same fashion as a general inverter AC by regulating the speed of the compressor. If your area sees the extreme of temperature in the summer and you are a heavy user of AC, go for a dual inverter AC. You can have a look at our best air conditioners in India list above.

2. Are Window ACs available with Inverter Technology?

The inverter technology is primarily available for split ACs. However, brands like LG and Voltas have launched a handful of models where the Window ACs are having inverter technology in the compressor.

3. What is ISEER Rating for air conditioners?

The Bureau of Energy Efficiency (BEE) is responsible for giving star ratings to the ACs to help the customers identify the energy efficiency of the different models of ACs. In 2018, BEE introduced a new star rating label named Indian Seasonal Energy Efficiency Ratio or ISEER. It is an improvement over the previous rating system as it takes into consideration various climatic zones of India, variations in the temperature ranges and much more.

4. What is wrong with buying a non-inverter AC?

Just because a non-inverter AC costs less than an inverter AC does not mean you buy it. The initial cost will be cheaper by a few thousand, but in the long run, you have to spend thousands and thousands in the power bill. The non-inverter ACs have a fixed speed compressor, and therefore, there are less energy efficient. In other words, they consume more energy or electricity, and therefore, the power bill will be higher in comparison to inverter ACs.

Secondly, the non-inverter ACs always overcool the room which means if you set the temperature at 25 degree Celsius, the ultimate output will be around 22 to 23 which can be uncomfortable for many. This is because the fixed speed compressor is designed for the peak heat load. Even though the thermostat switches off the compressor at 25 degree Celsius, the refrigerant manages to absorb heat from the room air and convert into gas.

Lastly, non-inverter ACs are fast becoming obsolete. Therefore, you should buy them at your own risk because the spare parts may not be available in the future. The ACs needs annual maintenance, and at times, there are certain parts you have to change in case they get damaged somehow. In such a case, if the spare part is not available, you have to buy a new AC. This is why it is always best to buy the latest model, and most of the latest AC models have inverter technology.

5. Do I need to buy a voltage stabilizer with an inverter AC?

When you are buying an AC, you need to make a sizeable investment. It is always the responsibility of the buyer to protect their investment. Ideally speaking, you should expect your AC to work well for at least a decade before it needs repairing. Apart from the other factors, it is generally the voltage fluctuation that is extremely damaging for the ACs of any type. An inverter AC does not come with an inbuilt voltage stabilizer and therefore if you are living in a region where the voltage fluctuation a lot even though it is smaller in magnitude, you better get a voltage stabilizer.

This is because the compressor which is the most pricy component in the entire AC works in the voltage range of 190V to 240V. However, in the various parts of India, voltage fluctuation is common, and in some parts, the voltage is lower than 190V. In such areas, the voltage stabilizer will ensure the protection of the different parts of the AC and elongate its lifespan. Therefore, definitely ask the service providers who will be installing the AC to bring a voltage stabilizer as per the specifications of the AC.

6. What are the common modes in an inverter AC?

There are main four modes available in an inverter AC namely auto, cool, dry, and fan.

Auto Mode – In this mode, the cooling required for any room is determined automatically by the air conditioner based on the outside temperature. It is perfect when you are sleeping at night or planning to run the AC for a long time whereby the outdoor temperature variation is likely.

Cool Mode – The cool mode is the manual mode of cooling where you set a particular temperature, and the cooling effect will be served by the machine accordingly. It is best when you do not want that chilly atmosphere in the room or want instant cooling by fixing the temperature at the lowest point.

Dry Mode – This mode is applicable in the rainy season or when the room is humid. This is when the AC works more like a dehumidifier. You will find it better to breath as this can eliminate the moisture from the room air. Besides, too much moisture in the room air can damage your wooden furniture and promote the presence of bacteria in the air.

Fan Mode – Going by its name, it is the mode where you use your AC as a fan to circulate air in the room. You can use it in the winter season to heat up the units of ACs so that it does not get jammed and need maintenance service. It is also useful when the temperature is pleasant in the room, but the air is suffocating due to lack of circulation.

7. How often should I clean the air filter in AC?

The air filter of an AC is where the dust and airborne particles accumulate. The more the accumulation, the lesser will be the quality of air in the room. Therefore, you should clean the air filters from time to time to maintain a proper level of air quality. If you can, you should do it once or twice a month if you are using the AC regularly. You should ask the service provider how to open and attach the air filter when they come to install the AC. Apart from that, you should opt for annual maintenance service where they clean the air filter thoroughly along with other parts.

8. How can I maximize the performance of AC in my room?

There are a lot of things you can do in order to maximize the performance of your AC. First of all, you should ensure that the outdoor unit is facing an open area so that there is no blockage in the air flow.

Secondly, you need to see that there is no blockage in the drainage pipe and therefore, you should place it a foot above the ground so that insects cannot get in or kids start pulling them.

Thirdly, the indoor unit should not be placed on the wall which gets direct sunlight as it can get heated up.

Fourth, you should use blinds, curtains or sun films on the windows to reduce the heat input. This will ensure that the AC will take less time to cool the room and thereby, saving the power quite significantly. Fifth, you can install a false ceiling as the heat for the ceiling will not radiate that much directly in the room. Sixth, you should open the windows and let out the hot air from the room using the ceiling fan you have or the fan mode in the AC before closing the windows and starting the cool or auto mode.

Last and the most important step to increase the performance of the AC is to clean the filter regularly. Unclean filter obstructs optimal cooling, and the efficiency goes down by 10%.

Conclusion

So, if you have decided to buy an AC to beat the heat, you should always opt for an inverter AC rather than non-inverter ones. Since it requires quite a chunk of money, it is your responsibility to research well before buying. The above buying guide can help you through the process.

Our top pick for the best AC in India right now, is the Carrier Esko 1.5 Ton 4 Star Inverter Split AC. It is packed with features that are not only desirable but also very usable. The capacity of 1.5 ton is sufficient for a medium sized room. Coupled with the fact that it is 4-star BEE rated, it’s just the icing on the cake!

You want less power consumption? The inverter technology can take care of matters. You want efficient cooling? This can cool your room with the Hybridjet and Cyclojet technology. Along with that you get effective filtration system for better air quality, dehumidifier, various modes and additional features. Most importantly, you get the highest warranty figure of 10 years on the compressor. So, it is basically an all rounder and our favorite.

There are many other excellent ACs specially handpicked for you. They are listed keeping in mind, all the things you need while buying an AC in India.

Let us know your favorite from our list in the comment section below. We are waiting!